Don’t touch that. At the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, every interaction suddenly became a potential vector of transmission — and of heightened anxiety. Fortunately, not all surfaces are created equal. Ceramic and porcelain are inherently bacteriostatic, exceptionally non-absorbent and easy-to-clean materials, and they’ve been used to create hygienic and durable spaces for centuries. But that’s no excuse to stop evolving. For Ciot, the intrinsic properties of porcelain and ceramic tiles are a springboard for innovation in new technologies that supplement their natural qualities. 

Enter Microban. A marquee addition to Ciot’s extensive porcelain and ceramic portfolio, the antibacterial technology has recently been introduced to a number of its striking collections. Microban integrates ceramics with silver ions during the firing process to embed a powerful — and permanent — protective shield directly into the structure of the tile at a temperature of 1,200 degrees Celsius. Unlike films or surface treat-ments, Microban does not wear away and is equally effective with or without sunlight and UV rays. While the silver ions kill up to 99.9 per cent of all bacteria by blocking their cellular metabolism, they’re also completely safe for people and animals.

Ciot’s antibacterial Microban collections include Lea Ceramiche’s monochrome Absolute Slimtech (left) and stone-effect Nextone (right).

Ciot’s Microban collections, including standouts Nextone and Absolute Slimtech, possess an aesthetic refinement that belies their technical sophistication. Manufactured by Lea Ceramiche, the high-tech Italian industry leader, these versatile porcelain tiles are well-suited to both indoor and outdoor use in commercial and residential contexts and are available in a variety of formats. 

True to its name, Absolute Slimtech harnesses advanced fabrication techniques to create rich finishes in extremely thin (5.5-millimetre) large-scale slabs of up to 100 by 300 centimetres. Available in two pure, pared-down tones — Total White and Total Black — the elegant tiles can be manufactured for everything from exterior wall applications and interior floors and walls to counter surfaces and vanities, taking full advantage of Microban’s antibacterial properties. 

Offered in four neutral colours that deftly replicate the tones and textures of natural stone, Nextone tiles combine Microban technology with a soothing, natural appearance. Designed to stand up to high-traffic areas indoors and out, the tiles can be installed on walls and floors to create a sophisticated backdrop for any space. The result is pleasing to the eye and safe to the touch. 

This content was published by Azure on behalf of Ciot.